From back problems with a herniated disc, to a tear in the retina, then on for a thumb issue (again), I passed go and dropped in for knee trials. There always seems to be plenty of physical ailments to endure in this transitory existence. Not to mention the most painful, losing family members in death, it can all seem impossible to endure. But . . .

“I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.”

John 16:33, NLT

Jesus is informing believers to prepare for a life of sorrow and trials. However, it seems many Christians want to avoid those passages of Scripture while claiming others that make one healthy and prosperous; Looking for easy commands instead of passages which instruct a believer to love their enemies or pray for those who persecute them. God wants His followers to understand His thoughts are nothing like their thoughts (Isaiah 55:8). He also provides a way for a believer to endure the trials and sorrow they encounter. Philippians 4:8 instructs a person to fix his or her thoughts. And where a person’s thoughts are placed is vitally important to experiencing peace! Likewise, knowing what other believers endured before us will help as well (Hebrews 12:1).

“Now I want you to know, brethren, that my circumstances have turned out for the greater progress of the gospel.”

Philippians 1:12

The Apostle Paul was very familiar with suffering. Yet, he knew without a doubt that our circumstances are avenues to see God work for His glory! And what God allows to enter our life is part of our race, better translated, “our agony”! What God allows has a purpose. A world is watching how we handle what we experience, i.e., with fear or with peace (IN HIM). It is a learning experience propelling us into becoming divine individuals with a fixed eyesight (Hebrews 12:1-3).

Our fixed eyesight on Jesus, the OVERCOMER, promotes peace IN HIM!

…let us run with endurance the race (agony) [God has] set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider Him who has endured such hostility by sinners against Himself, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.

Hebrews 12:1-3, NASB